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Boro Academy player Harry Chapman signs his first professional contract at Rockliffe Park

Academy youngster Harry Chapman has secured his future with Boro by signing his first professional contract with the club at the age of 17.

Hartlepool-born Chapman, an attack-minded midfielder who was just six when he started at one of Boro's development centres, is delighted to have put pen to paper.

"This is a big thrill and hopefully just the start for me," he said.

Chapman is quick to thank those who have helped him reach this stage of his career: "My mam and dad, they are the first people I should thank, then Alec Hewitt who scouted me. Dave Parnaby and all the coaches here at Middlesbrough have been really helpful and it means a lot.

"Everyone knows how good the club is in helping young players, I'm in a good place and I'm really thankful for the chance I've been given."

In his Academy capacity Chapman looks after the boots of Adam Clayton, but it's another Adam he most likens himself to.

"I suppose I admire the way Adam Reach plays and the route he has taken to get where he is, I play a similar way to him. But everyone is very helpful, the Head Coach is really good and everyone talks to you and offers encouragement."

The immediate aim for Chapman is twofold: "I'd like to get into the U21s and stay there before the end of the season and although I've been on standby-by for the England U18 team, I'd like to be included at that level too. Eventually I'd love to play for Boro's first team of course!"